Washington, Dec 17 : US President Donald Trump used a White House Hanukkah reception on Tuesday to deliver a campaign style address defending Israel, denouncing antisemitism, and highlighting his administration’s actions against Iran and Hamas, while an enthusiastic audience cheered, chanted slogans, and applauded familiar political refrains.
Speaking in the East Room, Trump framed himself as a staunch supporter of Jewish Americans and Israel, blending policy claims with political attacks and personal commentary. Audience members repeatedly shouted “Four more years” and “We love Trump”, prompting smiles and pauses from the president.
Trump opened by condemning an antisemitic mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, attributing the attack to the Islamic State. “Let me take a moment to send love and prayers to the entire nation, the people of Australia, and especially all those affected by the horrific and anti-Semitic terrorist attack,” he said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the Jewish community: “As President of the United States, I will always support Jewish Americans, and I will always be a friend and a champion to the Jewish people.” Trump also warned that antisemitism is rising in the US, particularly in politics and on college campuses.
Addressing regional security, Trump highlighted the Israel-Hamas conflict and US military action against Iran, asserting that his administration’s actions have deterred aggression. He defended previous operations, including strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, describing them as “obliterated” despite criticism from media outlets such as CNN.
The president incorporated familiar campaign rhetoric, invoking phrases like “fake news,” “Pocahontas,” and “AOC plus three”, while joking about bringing notes to the holiday dinner: “I’ve done so much for Israel that I have to read!”
Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and is traditionally marked by the lighting of the menorah over eight nights. The White House celebration serves as both a religious observance and a gesture of outreach to the American Jewish community.